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Stuart Broad responds to David Warner’s bold prediction; calls Australia ‘weakest team’ ahead of Ashes 2025-26

The countdown to Ashes 2025 has already sparked heated verbal exchanges between cricket’s oldest rivals. England And Australia are set to renew their historic rivalry when the first Test begins in Perth on November 21. David Warner boldly predicted a 4-0 triumph for the home side, retired England coach Stuart Broad has sparked fresh debate by hitting back at Warner, calling current Australian programming the “worst” since 2010.

Stuart Broad calls Australia ‘weakest team’ ahead of Ashes series

Preparation for the 2025 Ashes became red-hot after Warner said England would only be “play for moral victories during their tour to the antipodes. In response, Broad made headlines on the BBC. For the love of cricket podcast calling this Australian team the weakest in over a decade. The 39-year-old, who finished his Ashes career in 2023, claimed statistical and situational factors supported his statement rather than personal bias.

You wouldn’t be outlandish to think this is probably the weakest Australian team since 2010, when England last won there.” Broad said, suggesting that Pat Cummins’ fitness issues and the inconsistency of Australia’s batting line-up left them vulnerable. Broad added that while Australia remain hot favorites at home, pressure would increase on the hosts, particularly with doubts surrounding their captain’s availability for the Perth Test.

Australia, who have not lost an Ashes at home since the 2010-11 season, face intense scrutiny over the stability of their bowling attack and middle order. Cummins’ prolonged recovery from hamstring strain and aging pillars like Steven Smith And Usman Khawaja add more uncertainty. Despite his scathing remarks, Broad acknowledged that winning an Ashes in Australia remains one of the toughest challenges in world cricket.

ALSO READ: Australia or England? David Warner predicts Ashes score 2025-26

England’s renewed hope and Australia’s looming pressure

Broad’s comments come at a time when England has rediscovered the belief under Ben Stokes And Brendon McCullum. Their attacking ‘Bazball’ approach has reshaped Test cricket, bringing new optimism about an away triumph. With pastas such as Zak Crawley, Harry BrookAnd Joe Racine in good shape, coupled with a balanced rhythm attack led by Ollie Robinson And Marc BoisEngland seems more prepared than ever for Australian conditions.

However, Broad’s statement also amplifies the psychological warfare that usually precedes any Ashes series. By highlighting Australia’s weak points, the former England spearhead may have strategically put pressure on the hosts. Historically, Australia have dominated the Ashes at home, but Broad’s assertion that they have to “play badly to lose” resonates with both logic and experience. This sets up an intriguing scene for the series, where expectations could turn into a burden for the reigning holders.

Australia have retained the Ashes since their 4-0 win in 2017-18 and drew England 2-2 in the 2023 series. The upcoming 2025 contest will not only test their resilience but also determine whether England’s resurgence can finally end a 14-year drought on Australian soil. With verbal volleys already in motion, cricket fans can expect a fiery opening clash in Perth as both sides prepare for another chapter in the sport’s most legendary rivalry.

ALSO READ: Joe Root reflects on Australia’s Test century drought ahead of Ashes 2025-26

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